Ethiopia Volcano Eruption Disrupts Travel: Ash Clouds Sweep Across India, Flights Canceled

Published on November 25, 2025

A sudden eruption of Ethiopia’s Hayli Gubbi volcano has sent a massive ash cloud stretching across India, causing major disruptions in air traffic. On Tuesday night, the cloud reached Indian skies, significantly affecting flight operations throughout northern and western parts of the country. Several flights, both domestic and international, have been canceled, and airlines are working hard to accommodate affected passengers. This marks the first eruption of the Hayli Gubbi volcano in recorded history, sending shockwaves through not only the local Ethiopian population but also across the globe, altering air travel routes and creating significant delays.

Ash Cloud Impact: Which Regions Are Affected?

The massive ash plume from the Hayli Gubbi volcano, rising over 14 kilometers into the sky, moved swiftly across the Red Sea, reaching India by late Monday night. According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), the ash has influenced regions such as Delhi, Gujarat, Maharashtra, Rajasthan, and Haryana, creating low visibility and causing operational difficulties for airports. This disruption is expected to continue throughout Tuesday, with aviation authorities warning airlines to avoid these affected areas.

Flight cancellations have been reported by major carriers such as Air India, which canceled 11 flights scheduled for November 24 and 25, impacting both domestic and international routes. Among the affected flights were services from major hubs like New York, Dubai, and Doha to Indian cities including Delhi, Mumbai, and Chennai. Additionally, low-cost carrier Akasa Air also had to cancel flights to and from key Middle Eastern destinations, including Jeddah and Kuwait.

Flight Cancellations and Re-Routing: Air India and Akasa Air Act Quickly

Air India, in response to the volcanic ash cloud, confirmed the cancellation of several international flights, including those from New York and Newark to Delhi, as well as flights from Dubai and Doha to major Indian cities. The airline announced that it had initiated precautionary checks for all aircraft that had previously flown over areas affected by the ash. The airline’s spokesperson also reassured passengers, offering alternative travel options and accommodation at hotels for those affected.

Akasa Air also had to cancel several flights to destinations like Jeddah and Kuwait. The disruptions have caused significant delays, with many passengers facing uncertainty about when they will be able to depart. Airlines have been instructed by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) to adjust flight schedules and route planning, prioritizing safety and minimizing the risks posed by the volcanic ash cloud.

Ash Cloud Expected to Clear by 7:30 PM IST Today

According to IMD’s latest updates, the ash cloud is slowly moving eastward and is expected to clear from Indian airspace by 7:30 pm IST. As the ash moves towards China, aviation authorities are keeping a close watch on the situation, and further updates are expected from the DGCA. The ash cloud, though disruptive, is not expected to affect air quality in Indian cities as it remains high in the atmosphere. However, sulfur dioxide levels could impact regions near the Himalayas, as well as Uttar Pradesh’s Terai belt.

Safety Measures: DGCA Issues Volcanic Ash Advisory for Airlines

In response to the disruptions caused by the eruption, the DGCA issued a comprehensive advisory, instructing airlines to avoid flight paths over areas affected by the ash cloud. Airlines are advised to adjust their altitudes and flight routes according to the latest guidance to prevent flying through the ash cloud. The advisory also recommended that airports conduct thorough checks to ensure that runways remain clear of ash particles, as this could pose a danger to aircraft operations.

IMD’s director, M Mohapatra, highlighted that the volcanic plume, which contains fine particles of ash and sulfur dioxide, poses a minimal threat to air pollution in India, as it is confined to higher altitudes. However, he mentioned that areas such as Delhi and Gujarat might experience temporary disruptions in air traffic, especially in regions like Rajasthan and Haryana.

Global Travel Affected as Ash Clouds Spread

As the ash cloud made its way across India, it caused flight disruptions not only for Indian airlines but also for international carriers. Many airlines, including those flying to and from the Middle East, re-routed their planes to avoid flying through the ash-affected areas. Pakistan’s airspace has also been temporarily closed for Indian airlines as a safety measure. This resulted in additional delays for travelers trying to reach their destinations on time.

The Hayli Gubbi eruption has caused significant global travel disruptions, and experts predict that the situation could worsen as the ash cloud continues its eastward movement. Travelers are advised to check with their airlines for any updates regarding flight statuses and alternative travel options.

When Will the Ash Cloud Leave India?

According to the India Meteorological Department’s forecast, the ash cloud is expected to exit Indian skies by Tuesday evening, around 7:30 pm IST, when it is predicted to move further towards China. The ash plume has already drifted across the Arabian Sea and affected parts of northwestern India. Authorities are continually monitoring the situation and providing updates to the aviation sector to ensure passenger safety.

As of now, the IMD has confirmed that the ash cloud will not have a significant impact on air quality, despite concerns over sulfur dioxide levels. It is expected that the ash will disperse into the upper atmosphere, with minimal fallout on the ground. Experts are hopeful that the skies will soon return to normal, allowing the aviation industry to regain its normal operations.